NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft has started taxi tests, marking a major milestone in its development. On July 10, 2025, test pilot Nils Larson and the team completed the aircraft’s first low-speed taxi test at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California.
The taxiing marks the X-59’s final series of ground tests before its first flight. Over the coming weeks, the aircraft will gradually increase its speed, culminating in a high-speed taxi test that will push it close to takeoff.
Engineers and pilots monitored how the X-59 handled during the low-speed tests, validating critical systems like steering and braking. These checks ensure stability and control across various conditions, giving confidence to pilots and engineers.
The X-59 is central to NASA’s Quest mission, aiming to demonstrate quiet supersonic flight by reducing sonic booms to a “thump.” Data from the X-59 will be shared with US and international regulators to establish new noise thresholds for supersonic commercial flights over land.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/nasas-x-59-quiet-supersonic-aircraft-begins-taxi-tests